Electrode configurations for surgical instruments

ABSTRACT

An end effector includes a first electrically conductive layer and a second electrically conductive layer comprising an electrically conductive projection extending from the second electrically conductive layer, wherein at least one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection is movable relative to the other one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection to capture tissue therebetween.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and, in various circumstances, to surgical sealing and transecting instruments.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument comprises an end effector. The end effector comprises a first jaw comprising a first electrically conductive layer and a second jaw, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other one of the first jaw and the second jaw to transition the end effector between a first configuration and a second configuration. In at least one embodiment, the second jaw comprises a second electrically conductive layer defining at least one opening and an electrically non-conductive layer, wherein the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically non-conductive layer are configured to be on opposite sides of the second electrically conductive layer. In at least one embodiment, the second jaw further comprises at least one electrically conductive member extending from the electrically non-conductive layer and projecting through the at least one opening to maintain a predetermined gap between the first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer, wherein the second electrically conductive layer is configured to conduct electrical energy to the first electrically conductive layer and the at least one electrically conductive member through tissue disposed between the first jaw and the second jaw in the second configuration to treat the tissue.

In another embodiment, an end effector for a surgical instrument is provided. The end effector comprises a first electrically conductive layer and a second electrically conductive layer comprising an electrically conductive projection extending from the second electrically conductive layer, wherein at least one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection is moveable relative to the other one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection to capture tissue therebetween. The end effector further comprises a first electrically non-conductive support comprising a first aperture, wherein the electrically conductive projection extends through the first aperture. In at least one embodiment, the end effector further comprises a third electrically conductive layer comprising a second aperture, wherein the electrically conductive projection extends through the second aperture, and wherein the first electrically non-conductive support is positioned between the second electrically conductive layer and the third electrically conductive layer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features and advantages provided in this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of instances of the disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical instrument comprising a handle assembly and an end effector, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side elevational view of the handle assembly of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an end effector of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 4, wherein tissue is captured between a first jaw and a second jaw of the end effector, and wherein the end effector includes a plurality of conductive protrusions, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 4, wherein tissue is captured between a first jaw and a second jaw of the end effector, and wherein the end effector includes a plurality of protrusions each comprising an electrically conductive portion extending from an electrically non-conductive portion, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4C illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 4, wherein tissue is captured between a first jaw and a second jaw of the end effector, and wherein the end effector includes a plurality of protrusions each comprising an electrically conductive portion extending from an electrically non-conductive portion and partially enclosed in an electrically non-conductive barrier, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a jaw of an end effector of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5A illustrates partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 5, wherein tissue is captured between a first jaw and a second jaw of the end effector, and wherein the end effector includes a plurality of protrusions extending from an electrically conductive layer, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of a jaw of the end effector of FIG. 4, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side elevational view of a jaw of an end effector of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 7A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the jaw of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a jaw of an end effector of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 8, wherein tissue is captured between a first jaw and a second jaw of the end effector, wherein the end effector includes a plurality of protrusions extending from an electrically conductive layer, and wherein each protrusion is partially enclosed in an electrically non-conductive barrier, according to one embodiment; and

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a protrusion or projection of the jaw of an end effector of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various embodiments of the disclosure, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain example embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting example embodiments and that the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one example embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” referring to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” referring to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. Surgical instruments, however, can be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

Various example devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. The various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in numerous surgical procedures and applications including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As discussed in the present Detailed Description, the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into a body in any way, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in tissue, etc. The working portions or end effector portions of the instruments can be inserted directly into a patient's body or can be inserted through an access device that has a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical instrument 2 comprising a handle assembly 4 and an end effector 10 according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the surgical instrument 2 of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment and FIG. 3 illustrates a side elevational view of the handle assembly 4 of the surgical instrument of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment. Turning to FIGS. 1-3, one form of an electrosurgical instrument 2 is depicted. The electrosurgical instrument 2 comprises a handle assembly 4, a shaft assembly 12 coupled to a distal end of the handle assembly 4, and an end effector 10 coupled to the distal end of the shaft assembly 12. The handle assembly 4 is configured as a pistol grip and comprises left and right handle housing shrouds 6 a, 6 b, a closure trigger 8, a pistol-grip handle 14, a firing trigger 16, an energy button 18, and a rotatable shaft knob 20. An electrical cable may enter the handle assembly 4 at a proximal end 15.

In some circumstances, the end effector 10 can be coupled to the distal end of the shaft assembly 12. The end effector 10 may include a first jaw 22 a and a second jaw 22 b. The first jaw 22 a can be pivotably coupled to the second jaw 22 b. The first jaw 22 a is moveable with respect to the second jaw 22 b to grasp tissue therebetween. In some circumstances, the second jaw 22 b is fixed. In other circumstances, the first jaw 22 a and the second jaw 22 b are pivotably movable with respect to each other. The end effector 10 may include one or more electrodes such as, for example, electrodes 92, 94. The electrodes 92, 94 can be configured to pass energy through tissue positioned between the electrodes 92, 94. Energy delivered by the electrodes 92, 94 may comprise, for example, radiofrequency (RF) energy, sub-therapeutic RF energy, therapeutic RF energy, ultrasonic energy, and/or other suitable forms of energy. In some circumstances, a cutting member (not shown) is receivable within a longitudinal slot 40 (FIG. 4) defined by the first jaw 22 a and/or the second jaw 22 b. The cutting member can be configured to cut tissue grasped between the first jaw 22 a and the second jaw 22 b. In some circumstances, the cutting member may include an electrode for delivering energy, such as, for example, RF and/or ultrasonic energy.

In certain instances, an energy button 18 is configured to deliver energy to the at least one electrode 92 from a power source. In certain instances, when the energy button 18 is depressed, a circuit is completed allowing delivery of energy to the electrode 92. In some embodiments, the power source is a generator. In certain instances, the generator is external to the surgical instrument 2 which is separably coupled to the generator. In other instances, the generator is integrated with the surgical instrument 2. In certain instances, the power source may be suitable for therapeutic tissue treatment, tissue cauterization/sealing, as well as sub-therapeutic treatment and measurement.

In certain instances, the surgical instrument 2 may include a closure drive assembly which may comprise an outer sheath 23, for example. In certain instances, the closure trigger 8 can be operatively coupled to at least one of the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b through the closure drive assembly such that actuation of the closure trigger 8 in a closure stroke may transition the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b between a plurality of configurations including an open configuration and an approximated configuration, for example. In certain instances, the surgical instrument 2 may include a firing drive assembly. In certain instances, the firing trigger 16 may be operatively coupled to the cutting member of the end effector 10 through the firing drive assembly such that actuation of the firing trigger 16 in a firing stroke may cause the cutting member to be advanced relative to the end effector 10 to cut tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example.

When electrical current is supplied to an electrode such as, for example, the electrodes 92, 94, the electrical current can pass through the tissue positioned against and/or surrounding the electrode, for example. In various circumstances, the current flowing through the electrode can generate heat within the electrode and the surrounding tissue. In certain circumstances, the heat can denature proteins within the tissue and, in co-operation with clamping pressure provided by the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b of the end effector 10, the denatured proteins can form a seal within the tissue, for example.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side perspective view of the electrosurgical instrument 2 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 illustrates the right handle housing 6 b. The energy button 18 extends through the handle assembly 4 and is accessible on both sides of the handle assembly 4. The closure trigger 8, the firing trigger 16, and the energy button 18 may comprise an ergonomic design. In some circumstances, the handle assembly 4 is thinner near the energy button 18 to allow ease of access to the energy button 18 by a clinician. In some circumstances, the energy button 18 is disposed on either the left handle housing shroud 6 a or the right handle housing shroud 6 b. FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the electrosurgical instrument 2 and the right handle housing shroud 6 b. Various electrosurgical instruments suitable for use with the present disclosure are described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/075,839 and 14/075,863.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the end effector 10 of the surgical instrument 2 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIGS. 4A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector 10 of FIG. 4, wherein tissue is captured between the first jaw 22 a and the second jaw 22 b of the end effector 10, according to one embodiment. FIG. 4B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector 10 of FIG. 4, wherein tissue is captured between the first jaw 22 a and the second jaw 22 b of the end effector 10, according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the second jaw 22 b of the end effector 10 of FIG. 4, according to one embodiment. Referring now to FIGS. 4-4C and 6, the second jaw 22 b may include an electrically conductive layer 42 and an electrically non-conductive layer or support 46. One or more protrusions or projections 50 may extend from the non-conductive layer 46 through the electrically conductive layer 42. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the electrically conductive layer 42 may include one or more openings or apertures 44. In certain instances, one or more of the protrusions 50 may extend from the non-conductive layer 46 and pass through an opening or aperture 44 of the electrically conductive layer 42.

In certain instances, one or more of the protrusions 50 may be comprised, or at least partially comprised, of an electrically conductive material. As illustrated in FIGS. 4B, a protrusion or projection 50 may include an electrically non-conductive portion 45 and an electrically conductive portion 50 a that extends from the non-conductive portion 45. The non-conductive portion 45 may extend from the non-conductive layer 46. The electrically conductive portion 50 a may extend from the non-conductive portion 45 in a direction away from the non-conductive layer 46, as illustrated in FIG. 4B. The non-conductive layer 46 and/or the non-conductive portion 45 may be comprised of an electrically non-conductive, or insulative, material, such as plastic and/or ceramic, for example.

In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, the electrically conductive portion 50 a extends through an opening or aperture 44 of the electrically conductive layer 42. In such instances, the electrically conductive portion 50 a may be employed to grip tissue in contact therewith. In at least one example, the electrically conductive portion 50 a may comprise a textured or patterned outer surface to improve its ability to grip the tissue.

In certain instances, one or more of the protrusions 50 can be comprised of an electrically non-conductive material coated, or at least partially coated, with an electrically conductive material, for example. In certain instances, the electrically conductive portion 50 a is comprised of an electrically conductive surface or coating disposed at a terminal end of the non-conductive portion 45. The electrically conductive surface may be configured to contact tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b. In at least one example, an electrically conductive surface can be textured or patterned to improve its ability to grip tissue in contact therewith.

In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4C, the non-conductive layer 46 may comprise an electrically non-conductive barrier 49. The non-conductive barrier 49 may partially enclose or insulate the conductive portion 50 a. In at least one example, the barrier 49 isolates the conductive portion 50 a from the conductive layer 42. An outer surface 51 may remain exposed, as illustrated in FIG. 4C. The surface 51 may be configured to contact tissue captured between the jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4C, a barrier 49 may extend through an opening or aperture 44 of the conductive layer 42 to surround, or at least partially surround, a protrusion or projection 50 extending through the opening 44. The barrier 49 may prevent, or at least reduce, arcing between the protrusion 50 and the conductive layer 42.

In certain instances, referring again to FIGS. 4-4C and 6, the electrode 92 includes the conductive layer 42. The conductive layer 42 may extend between, or at least partially between, the non-conductive layer 46 and tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example. In certain instances, electrical current can pass between an electrically conductive layer 95 of the first jaw 22 a and the conductive layer 42 through the tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example. The conductive layer 95 can be positioned between an electrically non-conductive layer 97 of the first jaw 22 a and tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C. The non-conductive layer 97 can be positioned, or at least partially positioned, between the conductive layer 95 and an outer electrically conductive layer 99, as illustrated in FIG. 4A-4C. In certain instances, electrical current can pass between the conductive layer 42 and the outer conductive layer 99 through tissue, for example. The conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue.

Further to the above, the electrical current may pass between an electrically conductive layer 95 of the electrode 94 and an electrically conductive portion 50 a of a protrusion or projection 50 through tissue gripped by the electrically conductive portion 50 a. In certain instances, the conducted current may also pass between the electrically conductive portion 50 a and the conductive layer 42 through the tissue gripped, or at least partially gripped, by the electrically conductive portion 50 a. The reader will appreciate that the conductive nature of the electrically conductive portion 50 a facilitates the passing of the current through the tissue gripped, or at least partially gripped, by the electrically conductive portion 50 a. In certain instances, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue gripped by the electrically conductive portion 50 a.

Referring primarily to FIG. 6, the conductive layer 42 can be disposed, or at least partially disposed, over an electrically non-conductive layer 46. In certain instances, the non-conductive layer 46 may comprise a receiving shell 47. In such instances, the conductive layer 42 can be embedded, or at least partially embedded, in the receiving shell 47, as illustrated in FIG. 4, for example. The receiving shell 47 may include a plurality of receiving portions or sockets 46 a. In at least one instance, a protrusion or projection 50 can be fastened (e.g., glued) to the non-conductive layer 46. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, a protrusion or projection 50 can be partially embedded in a receiving portion 46 a.

The electrically conductive layer 42 may include an outer surface 43 facing away from the non-conductive layer 46. The outer surface 43 may contact tissue captured between the first and second jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the non-conductive layer 46 may extend between the conductive layer 42 and a base 48. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the base 48 may include an electrically conductive layer 101. In such instances, the non-conductive layer 46 can be positioned, or at least partially positioned, between the conductive layer 42 and the conductive layer 101, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, for example. In certain instances, electrical current can pass between the conductive layer 42 and the conductive layer 101 through tissue, for example. The conducted can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue.

In certain instances, referring to FIGS. 4-4B and 6, the electrically conductive layer 42 may be comprised of a first lateral portion 42 a and a second lateral portion 42 b. The lateral portions 42 a, 42 b may extend, or at least partially extend, on opposite lateral sides of the elongate slot 40, for example. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the conductive layer 42 may include a plurality of openings or apertures 44. In various instances, the openings 44 can be arranged in rows that extend in parallel, or at least substantially in parallel, with the elongate slot 40. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, a first row of the openings 44 and a second row of the openings 44 may be disposed on opposite lateral sides of the slot 40. Furthermore, the protrusions 50 can be arranged in rows that extend in parallel, or at least substantially in parallel, with the elongate slot 40. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, a first row of the protrusions 50 and a second row of the protrusions 50 may be disposed on opposite lateral sides of the slot 40. In certain instances, the protrusions 50 can be in any array, offset, laterally across from one another, or staggered along a length of one or both of the jaws 22 a, 22 b.

In certain instances, an opening or aperture 44 may define a through-hole that extends through the conductive layer 42 along an axis that intersects the conductive layer 42. In certain instances, the through-hole can be reamed, drilled, or milled through the conductive layer 42 along, or at least substantially along, an axis L that intersects the outer surface 43 of the conductive layer 42, as illustrated in FIG. 4A. In certain instances, the axis L can be perpendicular, or at least substantially perpendicular, to a plane extending along, or at least substantially along, the outer surface 43 of the conductive layer 42. In certain instances, the opening 44 may define a perimeter wall 44 a. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the perimeter wall 44 a may comprise cylindrical, or at least substantially cylindrical, shape.

In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 4C, a barrier 49 may extend, or at least partially extend, between a perimeter wall 44 a of the conductive layer 42 and a corresponding conductive portion 50 a, for example. The barrier 49 may insulate the perimeter wall 44 a from the conductive portion 50 a. An outer conductive surface 51 may remain exposed. The surface 51 may be configured to contact tissue captured between the jaws 22 a, 22 b, for example. In certain instances, the tissue connecting the electrically conductive surface 51 and the electrically conductive layer 42 may create a passage for current to flow between the protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42. In at least one example, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue disposed, or at least partially disposed, between the electrically conductive surface 51 and the electrically conductive layer 42.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second jaw 23 of the end effector 10 of the surgical instrument 2 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the second jaw 23 of FIG. 5, according to one embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the second jaw 23 is similar in many respects to the second jaw 22 b (FIG. 4). For example, like the second jaw 22 b, the second jaw 23 includes the conductive layer 42, and the protrusions 50. Also, like the jaws 22 a, 22 b, tissue is captured between the jaws 22 a, 23, as illustrated in FIG. 5A. However, unlike the jaw 22 b, the protrusions 50 of the jaw 23 extend from an electrically conductive layer 48 a. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the base 48 may comprise the conductive layer 48 a. In one example, the protrusions 50 and the conductive layer 48 a may be formed as a single unit. In another example, the protrusions 50 and the conductive layer 48 a may be formed separately and assembled by attaching the protrusions 50 to the conductive layer 48. In certain instances, the protrusions 50 and the conductive layer 48 a may be comprised of the same, or similar, conductive materials.

The second jaw 23 comprises an electrically non-conductive support or layer 46′, which is similar in many respects to the non-conductive layer 46. For example, like the non-conductive layer 46, the non-conductive layer 46′ may be comprised of an electrically non-conductive, or insulative, material, such as plastic and/or ceramic. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the non-conductive layer 46′ may extend, or at least partially extend, between the conductive layer 48 a and the conductive layer 42. The conductive layer 48 a and the conductive layer 42 can be attached to opposite sides of the non-conductive layer 46′. The non-conductive layer 46′ may electrically insulate the conductive layer 42 from the conductive layer 48 a.

In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, the non-conductive layer 46′ may comprise a plurality of apertures or openings 57. The openings 57 can be configured to receive the protrusions 50. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, an opening 57 can be aligned, or at least partially aligned, with an opening 44 of the conductive layer 42 to permit a protrusion or projection 50 to extend through the opening 57 and the opening 44 away from the conductive layer 48 a. In certain instances, unlike the openings 44, the openings 57 can be tightly fitted around the protrusions 50. An opening 57 may define a smaller perimeter wall 57 a around a protrusion or projection 50 than the perimeter 44 a defined by the opening 44 around the protrusion 50. In at least one example, an opening 57 and an opening 44 can be concentrically aligned about a longitudinal axis L defined by a protrusion or projection 50, as illustrated in FIG. 5A. In at least one example, a protrusion 50 may be in contact (not shown) with a perimeter wall 57 a of an opening 57 surrounding the protrusion 50.

Referring again to FIG. 5A, in certain instances, electrical energy can be passed from the conductive layer 42 to the conductive portions 50, the conductive layer 95, and/or the conductive layer 99, for example. The tissue gripped, or at least partially gripped, by the conductive portions 50 can act as a conduit for the electrical current passed between the conductive layer 42 and the conductive portions 50. Tissue can also act as a conduit for the electrical current passed between the conductive layer 42 and the conductive layers 95 and/or 99, for example. In any event, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue.

Referring again to FIG. 5A, in certain instances, electrical energy can be passed from the conductive layer 95 to the conductive portions 50, the conductive layer 42, and/or the conductive layer 99, for example. The tissue gripped, or at least partially gripped, by the conductive portions 50 can act as a conduit for the electrical current passed between the conductive layer 95 and the conductive portions 50. Tissue can also act as a conduit for the electrical current passed between the conductive layer 95 and the conductive layers 42 and/or 99, for example. In any event, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side elevational view of a second jaw 25 of the surgical instrument 2 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment, and FIG. 7A illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the second jaw 25 of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the second jaw 25 is similar in many respects to the second jaw 22 b (FIG. 4) and/or the second jaw 23 (FIG. 5). For example, like the second jaws 22 b, 23, the second jaw 25 includes the conductive layer 42, and the protrusions 50. Also, like the jaws 22 a, 22 b and the jaws 22 a, 23, tissue is captured between the jaws 22 a, 25.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-7A, one or more of the protrusions 50 may extend from the non-conductive layer 46, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, or through the non-conductive layer 46′, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, toward the electrically conductive layer 42. In certain instances, a protrusion or projection 50 may extend through an opening 44 of the electrically conductive layer 42. In certain instances, the protrusion 50 may protrude through the outer surface 43 of the electrically conductive layer 42, as illustrated in FIG. 7. In certain instances, one or more electrically conductive portions 50 a may protrude through the outer surface 43 of the electrically conductive layer 42, as illustrated in FIG. 7A.

Referring to FIG. 7A, an electrically conductive portion 50 a may protrude or extend a predetermined distance (d1) beyond the outer surface 43 of the outer layer 42. The electrically conductive portion 50 a may prevent direct contact between the electrode 94 and the electrically conductive layer 42 of the electrode 92. In certain instances, the electrically conductive portion 50 a may maintain a minimum gap between the electrode 94 and the electrically conductive layer 42 of the electrode 92. In certain instances, the minimum gap can be defined by the predetermined distance (d1). In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d1) can be any distance selected from a range of about 0.001 inch to about 0.010 inch. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d1) can be any distance selected from a range of about 0.003 inch to about 0.008 inch. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d1) can be about 0.004 inch, for example. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d1) can be about 0.005 inch, for example.

Referring now primarily to FIG. 7A, a protrusion or projection 50 extending through an opening or aperture 44 of the electrically conductive layer 42 may be spaced apart from the perimeter wall 44 a of the opening 44 to prevent, or at least reduce, electrical arcing between the protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, the perimeter wall 44 a of the opening 44 may be disposed around, or at least partially around, the protrusion 50, wherein a predetermined distance (d2) is maintained between the protrusion 50, or at least the electrically conductive portion 50 a of the protrusion 50, and the wall 44 a of the opening 44.

Although the electrically conductive portion 50 a is spaced apart from the perimeter wall 44 a, current may still be conducted between the electrically conductive portion 50 a and the electrically conductive layer 42 through tissue disposed therebetween, as illustrated in FIG. 7A. In such instances, the conducted current may be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue disposed, or at least partially disposed, between the electrically conductive portion 50 a and the electrically conductive layer 42, for example.

In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d2) can be any distance selected from a range of about 0.001 inch to about 0.010 inch. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d2) can be any distance selected from a range of about 0.003 inch to about 0.008 inch. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d2) can be about 0.004 inch, for example. In certain instances, the predetermined distance (d2) can be about 0.005 inch, for example.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a second jaw 27 of the end effector 10 of the surgical instrument 2 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the second jaw 27 of FIG. 8, according to one embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the second jaw 27 is similar in many respects to the second jaw 23 (FIG. 5). For example, like the second jaw 23, the second jaw 27 includes the conductive layer 42, the conductive layer 48 a, the non-conductive layer 46′, and the protrusions 50. Also, like the second jaw 23, the protrusions 50 of the second jaw 27 may extend from the conductive layer 48 a through the non-conductive layer 46′, for example. Also, like the jaws 22 a, 23, tissue is captured between the jaws 22 a, 25, as illustrated in FIG. 9.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, a protrusion or projection 50 of the second jaw 27 may extend from the conductive layer 48 a and can be partially surrounded by an electrically non-conductive barrier 49 extending from the non-conductive layer 46′. In certain instances, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the barrier 49 can be disposed, or at least partially disposed, between a protrusion or projection 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42 to prevent, or at least reduce, electrical arcing between the protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42. An electrically conductive surface 51 of the protrusion 50 may remain exposed to permit current to flow between the protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42 through tissue disposed, or at least partially disposed, therebetween, for example. In certain instances, the tissue connecting the electrically conductive surface 51 and the electrically conductive layer 42 may create a passage for current to flow between the protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42. In at least one example, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue disposed, or at least partially dispose, between the electrically conductive surface 51 and the electrically conductive layer 42.

In certain instances, referring primarily to FIG. 10, a protrusion or projection 50 of the second jaw 27 may be partially enclosed within the barrier 49 of the non-conductive layer 46′. In various instances, the protrusion 50 may comprise a semi-cylindrical shape comprising a first base 53 and a second base 55, as illustrated in FIG. 10, for example. The barrier 49 may comprise crescent shape configured to separate, or at least partially separate, an arcuate portion of the semi-cylindrical protrusion 50 from the electrically conductive layer 42 to prevent, or at least reduce, electrical arcing between the semi-cylindrical protrusion 50 and the electrically conductive layer 42. The second base 55 may extend, or at least partially extend in a first plane which is perpendicular, or substantially perpendicular, to a second plane defined by the first base 53, for example. In certain instances, the first base 53 can be flush with an outer surface 49 a of the barrier 49, for example.

In certain instances, the first base 53 and/or the second base 55 are exposed, as illustrated in FIG. 10. Said another way, the first base 53 and/or the second base 55 may not be enclosed by the non-conductive layer 46′. Yet said another way, the first base 53 and/or the second base 55 can contact tissue captured between the first jaw 22 a and the second jaw 27. In such instances, the captured tissue may create a passage for current to flow between the electrically conductive layer 42 and the first base 53 and/or the second base 55. In at least one example, the conducted current can be employed to treat, seal, and/or cut the tissue connecting the electrically conductive layer 42 and the first base 53 and/or the second base 55.

One or more of the switches described herein may comprise mechanical switches, electro-mechanical switches, and/or solid state switches. In certain instances, one or more of the switches of the present disclosure may comprise open, inactive, and/or non-conductive positions, states, and/or configurations. In certain instances, one or more of the switches of the present disclosure may comprise closed, active, and/or conductive positions, states and/or configurations. In certain instances, one or more of the switches of the present disclosure can be transitioned from the open, inactive, and/or non-conductive positions, states, and/or configurations to the closed, active, and/or conductive positions, states and/or configurations to close and/or activate one or more circuits associated with such switches, for example.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

Preferably, the disclosure described herein will be processed before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if necessary cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is the to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is the to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

While this disclosure has been described as having example designs, the present disclosure may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosure using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

The entire disclosures of:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/576,789, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR TRANSMITTING ENERGY TO TISSUE COMPRISING NON-CONDUCTIVE GRASPING PORTIONS, filed Oct. 9, 2009; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/075,839, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES, filed Nov. 8, 2013; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/075,863, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL DEVICES, filed Nov. 8, 2013; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/229,033, entitled DISTAL SEALING END EFFECTOR WITH SPACERS, filed Mar. 28, 2014, are hereby incorporated by reference herein. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A surgical instrument, comprising: an end effector, comprising: a first jaw comprising a first electrically conductive layer; a second jaw, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other one of the first jaw and the second jaw to transition the end effector between a first configuration and a second configuration, the second jaw comprising: a second electrically conductive layer defining at least one opening; an electrically non-conductive layer, wherein the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically non-conductive layer are configured to be on opposite sides of the second electrically conductive layer; and at least one electrically conductive member extending from the electrically non-conductive layer and projecting through the at least one opening to maintain a predetermined gap between the first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer, wherein the second electrically conductive layer is configured to conduct electrical energy to the first electrically conductive layer and the at least one electrically conductive member through tissue disposed between the first jaw and the second jaw in the second configuration to treat the tissue.
 2. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the at least one opening is located at a predetermined distance from the at least one electrically conductive member.
 3. The surgical instrument of claim 2, wherein the predetermined gap is equal to or greater than the predetermined distance.
 4. The surgical instrument of claim 2, wherein the predetermined distance is any distance selected from a range of about 0.001 inch to about 0.010 inch.
 5. The surgical instrument of claim 2, wherein the predetermined distance is about 0.004 inch.
 6. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive member extends along an axis that passes through the electrically non-conductive layer.
 7. The surgical instrument of claim 6, wherein the at least one opening defines a wall that at least partially extends about the axis.
 8. The surgical instrument of claim 7, further comprising an electrically non-conductive barrier configured to separate the wall of the at least one opening from the at least one electrically conductive member.
 9. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the predetermined gap between the first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer is any gap selected from a range of about 0.001 inch to about 0.010 inch.
 10. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the predetermined gap between the first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer is about 0.004 inch.
 11. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the electrically non-conductive layer comprises at least one socket configured to partially receive the at least one electrically conductive member.
 12. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive member is attached to the electrically non-conductive layer.
 13. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the at least one electrically conductive member comprises a plurality of electrically conductive members arranged in a first row and a second row.
 14. The surgical instrument of claim 13, further comprising a longitudinal slot extending longitudinally between the first row and the second row.
 15. An end effector for a surgical instrument, the end effector comprising: a first electrically conductive layer; a second electrically conductive layer comprising an electrically conductive projection extending from the second electrically conductive layer, wherein at least one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection is movable relative to the other one of the first electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive projection to capture tissue therebetween; a first electrically non-conductive support comprising a first aperture, wherein the electrically conductive projection extends through the first aperture; and a third electrically conductive layer comprising a second aperture, wherein the electrically conductive projection extends through the second aperture, and wherein the first electrically non-conductive support is positioned between the second electrically conductive layer and the third electrically conductive layer.
 16. The end effector of claim 15, wherein the second aperture is larger than the first aperture.
 17. The end effector of claim 15, wherein the second aperture defines a wall, and wherein the wall is separated from the electrically conductive projection by a predetermined gap.
 18. The end effector of claim 15, further comprising a second electrically non-conductive support, wherein the first electrically non-conductive support and the second electrically non-conductive support are positioned on opposite sides of the captured tissue.
 19. The end effector of claim 18, further comprising a fourth electrically conductive layer, wherein the second electrically non-conductive support is positioned between the fourth electrically conductive layer and the first electrically conductive layer.
 20. The end effector of claim 15, wherein the electrically conductive projection defines an axis that passes through the first aperture and the second aperture. 